More than 700 newly-qualified social workers have taken up posts within Northern Ireland’s Health & Social Care Trusts over the last two-and-a half years.

This significant number reflects a huge collaborative effort between the Department of Health, the Trusts and our universities and colleges to maximise the direct recruitment of social work graduates into HSC roles. It follows the ending in 2023 of the use of recruitment agencies to employ HSC social workers.

The Department of Health has also been steadily increasing investment in training places for social workers, with a record 344 places commissioned this academic year.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt recently met and welcomed a number of newly-qualified social workers who have taken up roles within the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust.

“I was delighted to be able to meet and take questions from some newly-qualified social workers who have started with the Trust in recent months,” the Minister said.

“They spoke so eloquently and passionately about their roles and the wider challenges within health & social care.

“I really value the vital contribution social workers make to communities across Northern Ireland, day in and day out. In recognition of this, my Department is engaged in an extensive programme of social work workforce reform, including significant investment in additional social work training places as well as investment in a range of actions to ensure those who choose this career are well-supported.

“I am hugely encouraged by the fact that over 700 social workers have been directly recruited into Northern Ireland’s five Health Trusts since mid 2023. My aim is to have a stable and sustainable workforce, in which social workers are able to do the crucial work they are trained and motivated to do. My Department will continue to work closely with the Trusts, and with other social work employers, to make sure that workforce planning and social workers’ wellbeing is given the priority it deserves

“I wish those who have taken up HSC social work posts in recent months my very best, and I hope that they have a long and rewarding career.”

Belfast Trust will have appointed 84 newly-qualified social workers to vacant posts by the end of this year as a result of efforts between the Department, Trust staff, the universities and colleges, and specialist healthcare recruitment services company Healthdaq.

While many have completed their professional training in Northern Ireland, a number of have been attracted here from universities in England and Scotland, including some originally from non-EEA countries.

The Minister added: “We know how important it is for early-career professionals to receive mentoring and support to sustain them in their professional journey, and my Department has been working closely with the Trusts to enhance the supports on offer to newly qualified social workers.”